Religion and spirituality conversation is a difficult topic to master in English. And frankly, it’s a challenging topic to teach. The sheer amount of vocabulary that is needed leads me to wonder where to begin.
While each student will have different interest and goals, there are basic terms that any student needs to know. So let’s start by talking about it, and we’ll tailor your vocabulary as we go.
Be prepared to be challenged! The following questions can bring up pretty personal conversations about how we understand our place in the universe.
Conversation Questions – Set One
1.) What is sacred to you?
2.) What is the difference between religion and spirituality?
3.) How important is religion and/or spirituality in your daily life?
4.) Can you name three religions, and tell us a little about each one?
5.) Do you think that, for most people, religion is more about a personal connection with the divine, or about identity and social status?
6.) Describe a profoundly spiritual or moving experience that you have had.
7.) Talk about some ways that Nature and natural cycles are celebrated in your culture.
8.) What do you think happens to us after we die?
9.) How are we able to be conscious?
10.) What is the purpose of our lives?
Conversation Questions – Set Two
1.) What is the difference between a religion and a cult?
2.) All of the major world religions preach love and tolerance. How do they so often end up being used in the name of violence?
3.) Why do you think the God of the three major monotheistic religions is usually referred to as male? Do you think society would be different if God was referred to as female? (See Biblical References to God as female.)
4.) Talk about a spiritual principle that is meaningful for you.
5.) Recount a parable or fairy tale.
6.) How do people continue to have faith in religious and/or scientific institutions that are self-serving and corrupt?
7.) How do you decide who to give power over you to, in terms of religion and spirituality?
8.) How does the dominant religion in your area influence your culture?
9.) Do you think following a religious doctrine is an essential part of being a good person?
10.) If you could ask God one question, what would it be?
